Providing the foundation for project delivery
Development viability. Construction Management.
Change of Use. Passivhaus. Retrofit. New Build.
Services
Development Viability
Establish a project's financial viability through comprehensive cost, risk and programme analysis before progressing to design or construction.
Construction Management
Assisting our clients with all aspects of their construction project from feasibility, cost planning, contractor procurement, programming and site supervision.
Change of use
Expert management of Class E to C3/C4 conversions, delivering compliant residential developments.
Passivhaus / EnerPHit
High-performance Passivhaus and EnerPHit projects delivered through diligent management and rigorous quality assurance.
Retrofit
Delivering high-quality retrofit solutions that enhance energy efficiency, reduce operational costs and create healthier, more comfortable buildings.
New Build
Guiding new build projects from concept to completion with expert planning, coordination and delivery.
Airtightness and insulation
Specialist installation ensuring a thermally secure building envelope.
Commercial Management
Managing costs, contracts and procurement to deliver commercially successful construction projects.
About us
Cornerstone Cost and Project Management are a Midlands based Construction Management company, specialising in new build, change of use, retrofit and Passivhaus residential projects, operating nationwide.Offering support to contractors, subcontractors, developers, architects, designers and self-builders for the full lifecycle of their project; Cornerstone provide the foundation for project delivery.Experienced in delivering projects scaling from 1 to 250 units, no project is too small or too complex for Cornerstone. Projects of all value are considered, but typically work within the £250k to £15 million range.Cornerstone offer a full turnkey construction management solution, from feasibility, planning stages, cost planning, sustainability device, site supervision and project management to ensure that your project benefits from the expertise that it requires.
Development viability
Successful developments begin with a clear understanding of a project's financial strength and awareness of the realities involved in delivering it. Assessing these factors before committing to design, planning or construction provides the insight needed to make informed investment decisions and reduce project risk.Our development viability service combines commercial analysis with practical construction expertise to assess the financial strength and deliverability of a scheme. Drawing on our background in cost management, risk management and project delivery, we evaluate anticipated construction costs, project risks, procurement considerations, programme constraints and buildability.Whether the project involves a new-build home, a commercial-to-residential conversion, a Passivhaus development or an energy-efficient retrofit, we help clients understand how construction complexity can influence the overall viability of the scheme.Early-stage advice enables better decisions, more realistic budgets and greater confidence before progressing to the next stage. Rather than discovering challenges during construction, we help identify them when changes are easier—and significantly less expensive—to make.By establishing a robust understanding of cost, risk and construction from the outset, our clients are able to progress into design and procurement with greater certainty, knowing their project is built on a commercially sound and deliverable foundation.
Construction Management
Construction management is the process of planning, coordinating and controlling a project from inception to completion. It provides clients with experienced oversight, helping to manage cost, quality, programme and risk throughout the development lifecycle.Our role is to protect your interests, provide clear project leadership and ensure every part of the team is working towards the same objectives.Where We Add ValueDevelopment & Feasibility
We assist with project appraisal, cost forecasting, procurement planning and programme development to establish a clear route to delivery.Design & Pre-Construction
We coordinate consultants, review buildability, monitor budgets and prepare procurement strategies that support successful project delivery.Construction Delivery
We manage contractors, monitor progress, control costs, oversee quality standards and provide regular reporting to keep projects on track.Completion & Occupation
We coordinate practical completion, manage defects, oversee final accounts and support a smooth transition into occupation.Tailored Around Your Needs
Not every project requires full project oversight. We can be appointed for specific stages, individual work packages or targeted advisory support. Whether you need assistance before construction begins, during delivery, or only at completion, our flexible approach ensures you receive the right level of support at the right time.
Change of use
No two conversion projects are the same. Unlike other developments, Class E to Class C3/C4 schemes require teams to work within the constraints of an existing structure, often uncovering unexpected issues as work progresses.Cornerstone can be appointed from the earliest stages of a project to assess development viability and support informed acquisition decisions. By considering purchase price, anticipated construction costs and key project risks, we help developers establish a realistic total project cost and determine the overall strength and feasibility of an opportunity before significant investment is made.As projects progress, unforeseen discoveries can create delays, additional costs and misalignments between contractors, consultants and stakeholders if not managed effectively. Existing buildings can conceal structural issues, service constraints, compliance requirements and other challenges that are difficult to identify until work is underway. We help identify risks early, coordinate responses quickly and maintain progress when challenges arise.For developers who would typically manage projects themselves, appointing an independent construction management team can provide significant advantages. Instead of spending valuable time resolving site issues, managing contractors and chasing progress, developers gain access to dedicated project oversight while remaining in control of key decisions. This allows valuable time to be redirected towards growing the business, securing funding, sourcing future development opportunities and progressing other projects within the portfolio.We act as a buffer between project stakeholders, helping to balance competing interests, maintain accountability and ensure decisions are aligned with the overall success of the development. As an independent representative of the project, our focus remains on achieving the client's objectives rather than those of any individual contractor or consultant.By keeping projects organised, coordinated and commercially focused, we help reduce disruption, improve delivery efficiency and support a smoother route to completion, allowing developers to focus on creating value rather than managing day-to-day construction challenges.
Passivhaus
Passivhaus is one of the most demanding construction standards in the industry, requiring exceptional levels of design coordination, workmanship and quality assurance throughout the construction process.Success is determined not only by design, but by how effectively that design is translated into reality on site.At Cornerstone, we understand that achieving Passivhaus performance requires an uncompromising approach to quality. Our view is straightforward: "it'll do" simply will not do.From air-tightness strategies and insulation continuity to service penetrations and critical junction details, every element must be planned, coordinated and executed correctly. Effective sequencing and programme management are essential, ensuring trades work efficiently together while protecting the integrity of previously completed work.Having a qualified and accredited Passivhaus Tradesperson overseeing delivery provides an additional layer of assurance that construction activities remain aligned with the project's performance objectives. Through proactive quality monitoring, stakeholder coordination and programme management, we help ensure the building performs as designed rather than simply appearing compliant on paper.Whether supporting a new Passivhaus development or an EnerPHit refurbishment, Cornerstone provides the expertise, oversight and attention to detail required to deliver high-performance buildings with confidence.
Retrofit
Every existing building has the potential to perform better. Through thoughtful retrofit, residential properties can become more comfortable, more energy efficient and better suited to modern living while extending their useful life.One of the most sustainable buildings is the one that already exists. Improving and adapting existing homes and apartment buildings not only reduces operational energy demand but also preserves much of the embodied carbon already invested in the structure, making retrofit an increasingly important part of creating a more sustainable built environment.Unlike new-build construction, retrofit projects often reveal unforeseen conditions once work begins. Existing construction methods, hidden defects and ageing building fabric can all influence programme, cost and the sequencing of works.Our role is to manage these complexities. By coordinating contractors, monitoring quality and carefully sequencing the installation of insulation, airtightness, ventilation and other energy-efficiency measures, we help ensure every improvement contributes to the overall performance of the building.Whether upgrading a single home, refurbishing an apartment block or delivering a larger residential retrofit project, we provide the expertise to manage risk, reduce disruption and deliver buildings that perform better for generations to come.
New Build
Delivering a successful new build development requires more than simply constructing a building. Careful planning, effective coordination and proactive management are essential to controlling costs, maintaining programme and ensuring health and safety compliance throughout the project.Our experience in construction, cost management and risk management allows us to support residential developments from single dwellings through to multi-unit schemes. We work alongside clients, consultants and contractors to identify potential challenges before they become costly problems.Common issues on new build projects often include incomplete design information, unrealistic budgets, programme delays, variations during construction, procurement challenges and quality defects. Left unmanaged, these can significantly impact project costs, timelines and overall value.We help clients establish robust budgets, realistic programmes and clear procurement strategies from the outset. Throughout construction, we monitor progress, manage risks, coordinate stakeholders and provide independent oversight to ensure projects remain aligned with their objectives.Whether you require support during feasibility, planning, procurement, construction or project completion, our involvement can be tailored to suit your project's specific requirements, providing confidence at every stage of delivery.
Airtightness and Insulation
The performance of any energy-efficient building is built upon two fundamental principles: effective insulation and airtight construction. When installed correctly, they work together to reduce heat loss, improve occupant comfort and lower long-term energy consumption.However, the quality of installation is just as important as the products themselves. Even small gaps, poorly sealed junctions or inconsistent insulation can significantly reduce building performance and lead to increased energy costs, condensation risks and occupant discomfort.At Cornerstone, we understand that achieving high-performance buildings requires a meticulous approach to construction. Careful planning, coordination and quality control help ensure insulation remains continuous and airtightness measures are installed correctly throughout the building envelope.By focusing on the details that are often overlooked, we help create buildings that perform as intended, delivering improved thermal efficiency, enhanced comfort and reduced operational energy demand.Whether forming part of a new-build development or EnerPHit (refurbishment/retrofit) project, high-quality airtightness and insulation installation provides the foundation upon which successful energy-efficient buildings are built.
Commercial Management
Successful developments are built on sound commercial decisions long before construction begins. Understanding project viability, managing risk and maintaining financial control throughout delivery are critical to achieving successful outcomes.At Cornerstone, our commercial management services can be provided as standalone appointments or integrated within a wider construction management role, offering clients the flexibility to access specialist expertise where it adds the greatest value.We are often appointed during the earliest stages of a development to assess project viability. By reviewing acquisition costs, anticipated construction expenditure, programme implications and key project risks, we help developers establish a realistic understanding of total project costs and the commercial strength of an opportunity before significant commitments are made.As projects progress, we provide a range of commercial management services including procurement strategy, tendering, cash flow forecasting, contract administration and risk management. Our objective is to provide clients with the information and controls required to make informed decisions throughout the project lifecycle.Effective commercial management is not simply about controlling costs. It is about understanding risk, identifying opportunities and ensuring project objectives remain aligned with financial performance.Whether supporting a specific commercial requirement or providing ongoing oversight as part of a wider project appointment, we help clients improve certainty, protect value and maintain greater control over project outcomes.
Why Clients Work With Us
Professional
Strong commercial management
Expertise in contractor management
Maintenance of clean and tidy sites
High standards
Effective site supervision and health and safety
Willingness to be at the heart of the project
Values
Trust
Committed to open communication, honesty and understanding of the project and its requirements
Quality
Delivering at and above required standards, guided by a ‘right first time’ approach
Service
Ensuring that all energy is put in to achieve the project goal – delivered safely, on time and within budget
Case Study - Burford House
Cornerstone were employed to provide site supervision, project management and commercial consulting on Burford House, a £2.3 million change of use project in the centre of Crewe. The project takes former offices and commercial premises and converting them to 31 apartments on a build to rent basis with refurbished commercial areas, under a Class E to Class C3 conversion. Further works are being carried out to the buildings’ façade, roof and renewal of the external areas.Expected completion: Following strong progress in the early months of the project, Phase 2 of the project has been brought forward. All works on the project are expected to be completed by February 2027; keep an eye on social media for project updates!
Areas we cover
Birmingham and the West Midlands and the surrounding regions of Shropshire, Staffordshire, Cheshire, Worcestershire, Warwickshire, Herefordshire, Gloucestershire, Leicestershire and Derbyshire.Our core operating area includes the above counties with projects considered in Birmingham, Solihull, Wolverhampton, Dudley, Walsall, Sutton Coldfield, Coventry, Worcester, Redditch, Bromsgrove, Kidderminster, Telford, Shrewsbury, Stafford, Lichfield, Tamworth, Leicester and Derby.
Contact
0121 663 7063
FAQs
What is the difference between Construction Management and a Main Contractor?
Both are types of procurement for a construction project, with the main difference being risk.
When employing a Main Contractor, the contract sum includes costs for the Contractor to take on the risk involved in a project. It provides a clearer and somewhat definitive cost for the project. This will include figures where the scale of work is unknown and a percentage figure to cover the Contractor's Overheads and Profit.Construction Management offers a procurement route where the company performs the same on site functions, but the risk stays with the client/employer. A fixed price for the Construction Management company's time, attendances and preliminaries will be agreed, which are paid usually against time on site. This can potentially see the client save money using the Construction Management route.
Which is the better procurement route; Main Contractor or Construction Management?
Neither route is inherently better than the other; the choice centres on the client's appetite for risk and overall proejct control.
What services do Cornerstone offer?
Cornerstone offer a full turnkey construction management solution, from development viability, planning stages, cost planning, contractor procurement, contract administration, site supervision and project management to ensure that your project benefits from the expertise that it requires.Cornerstone also offer flexibility to provide a single or multiple services across the project. Contact us to discuss your project requirements.
What is Passivhaus?
Passivhaus is a performance-based building standard focused on reducing energy demand through high-quality design and construction. By combining high levels of insulation, airtight construction, mechanical ventilation and heat recovery, Passivhaus buildings are comfortable, healthy, energy-efficient and built to perform as intended.
EnerPHit is the Passivhaus standard for refurbishment and retrofit projects, applying the same performance-led principles to existing buildings where full Passivhaus certification may not be practical or achievable.
Why do the Cornerstone and Passivhaus standard go well together?
The key to Passivhaus performance is getting the installation right.
'It will do', simply will not do.
What does it mean to be a Certified Passivhaus Tradesperson?
A Passivhaus Tradesperson is a construction professional who has received specialist training in the principles and practical application of Passivhaus construction. The qualification focuses on critical areas such as airtightness, insulation continuity, thermal bridge reduction, moisture management and quality assurance. By understanding how individual construction details affect overall building performance, a Passivhaus Tradesperson helps ensure that buildings are constructed as designed, reducing performance gaps and supporting the successful delivery of Passivhaus and EnerPHit projects.
What areas do you operate in?
Cornerstone are a Midlands based company, operating throughout the UK.While we work on projects nationwide, we have a particularly strong presence across Birmingham and the West Midlands and the surrounding regions of Shropshire, Staffordshire, Cheshire, Worcestershire, Warwickshire, Herefordshire, Gloucestershire, Leicestershire and Derbyshire.Our core operating area includes the above counties with projects considered in Birmingham, Solihull, Wolverhampton, Dudley, Walsall, Sutton Coldfield, Coventry, Worcester, Redditch, Bromsgrove, Kidderminster, Telford, Shrewsbury, Stafford, Lichfield, Tamworth, Leicester and Derby.